The Voice of Pelham, December 14 2016

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

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Vol.20 No.41

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Column Six Tommy Chong talks pot, trees and Trump

Senior Town staffer receives Helen Keller Award

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

When the Town’s Director of Recreation, Culture and Wellness, Vickie vanRavenswaay, came to the Fonthill Lions Club’s Dec. 6 meeting to give a presentation on the new Pelham Community Centre, she had no idea that the club had their own presentation planned for that night.

Immediately after she finished providing the Lions with an update on the project, club president Fred Arbour caught vanRavenswaay by surprise, awarding her with their prestigious Helen Keller Award.

“I am very honoured to have been given this award,” vanRavenswaay said.

“We have worked together on so many events it really means a lot to me to be recognized by them.”

One of the highest honours bestowed upon by the Lions Club, the award was created by the Lions Home for the Deaf to recognize the outstanding community service of Lions, Lioness and other deserving members of the public. Having devoted 25 years of service to the Town of Pelham, vanRavenswaay is a prime example of what the Helen Keller Award is all about. Hav-

Hire with confidence!

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

our own without the community behind us.”

Being an integral part of so many community events and initiatives over the years, vanRavenswaay takes pride in her service. She has been instrumental in projects and events such as the Steve Bauer Trail, the Isaac Riehl Skate Park and the Town’s Canada Day celebrations. One of the See AWARD Page 10

See CHONG Page 12

MIRACLE ON CANBORO ROAD When a cardinal swooped beak-first into the Fenwick Post Office’s plate glass window a few days ago, resident Gary Chambers tendered first aid to the dazed bird until it was once again cleared for take-off. The Town of Pelham’s co-Citizen of the Year 2014 (with his wife, Rose) continues to care for his fellows—human and avian.

SUPPLIED PHOTO ing worked with the Lions on countless occasions throughout her career, she said she appreciates the valuable role they play in building a strong and connected community.

“No matter what I do there are always community groups like the Lions there to help us,” she said.

“We can’t do it ourselves. It’s always a community effort. Very seldom do we do anything on

W

HEN A FRIEND called me a couple of weeks ago and asked whether I’d like to meet Tommy Chong, at first I thought he was joking. But it was true. Half of the famed Canadian comedy duo Cheech and Chong was appearing at McMaster University in Hamilton.

Backstage after the event, I had the pleasure of speaking with Chong about cannabis, spirituality, jail, and a certain U.S. President-elect.

Having used cannabis for

Concerns grow over senior housing affordability

BY JOHN SWART

VOICE Correspondent

Rapidly rising home prices have many Pelham seniors concerned about their ability to live out their full retirement years in Pelham. Are affordable housing and rents, and lack of facilities, forcing older seniors to leave town?

The Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee lists advocacy for seniors as its number one goal, and state their leading issue as affordable seniors housing in the Town of Pelham. PSAC is far from

alone in their concern, as federal, provincial and municipal policy-makers, developers, non-profits, and senior households across the country wrestle with the foreseeable and undeniable increase in demand for affordable seniors housing.

For research and tracking purposes, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation categorizes seniors in groups defined as: pre-seniors aged 55-64, younger seniors aged 65-74, older seniors 75-84, and elderly seniors 85 and over.

Escalating real estate prices threaten to force retirees out A Voice Special Report The conversations may differ by the senior group involved in the discussion, but changing housing requirements are a predominant concern of many in Pelham.

Pre-seniors and younger seniors may be simultaneously dealing with the housing needs of their parents, whose

mental and physical health and financial issues are forcing them to relocate, while also trying to come to terms with their own changing housing requirements. Older and elderly seniors trying to judge their best alternatives from what is available today, frequently searching for

assisted or long-term care facilities—and facing a bewildering range of monthly prices and services.

Based on 2011 census data defining seniors as those age 65-plus, Pelham has a very high population in this age group, 23% versus the provincial average of 14%. This percentage is expected to rise to approximately 28% when the results of the 2015 census are released next February.

If pre-seniors are included, the percentage of Pelham residents who qualify as seniors is significantly larger.

The complexity of the housing issue is sorely understated by the broad-brush catchphrases “seniors housing” and “affordable seniors housing,” and we do ourselves a disservice trying to address the issue without seeking to better understand seniors housing needs in a diverse town like Pelham.

The first question that must be asked of our residents is: “What does your version of seniors housing in Pelham look like, and what are your See SENIORS Page 2

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

NRP impaired driving charges

SENIORS

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

continued from Page 1

by Dave Burket

It couldn’t last forever...

Sure, we all knew that the extended autumn we enjoyed up until about 20 minutes ago was bound to end, and sure enough on Monday along came the kind of snow that not even snow-lovers love—wet, heavy, and in an amount just large enough to leave those who don’t already have snowblowers wondering whether this is finally the year to get one (see this week’s ads!), and those who do already have them wondering whether it was worth firing-up the beast for what fell. (The answer in both cases was “Definitely.”)

Heard in Shoppers...A 70-something couple looking for Band-Aids. Him: They’re making Band-Aids smaller than when we were kids. Her: I think your fingers have grown since then, Love.

An important read...It’s long because the issues are complex. John Swart’s article this week on the housing choices we’ll all be facing sooner or later is the product of weeks of interviews and research. Are we pricing seniors out of Pelham? Tell us what you think by taking this week’s Voice survey. Find it on our Facebook page, or on our website at www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/ later Seasonal thoughts...In the paper this week you’ll find a range of thought-provoking commentary on spirituality. Pastor Dan Calgagno reminds us of Christianity’s central message. Nick

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Saltarelli recalls a darker time and wonders whether faith is enough to prevent its return. And Nate Smelle sits down with iconic comic Tommy Chong for an entirely different take on the soul, and how Chong thinks it should be explored.

Well-deserved...Longtime Town employee Vickie vanRavenswaay has been honoured by the Fonthill Lions, as you’ve seen on page 1. The range of talent working on our behalf in Town Hall is considerable. It’s even more baffling, therefore, when valued employees are shown the door for murky reasons. Many of you have asked what the “real” story is behind the recent departure of the Town’s Marketing and Communications Officer—the most recent of some 35 such departures, by some counts, since David Augustyn took office.

Unfortunately, the Mayor has declined to answer any of our questions on the matter, referring them to CAO Darren Ottaway. Mr. Ottaway did not respond to our queries before presstime. Chief among these is whether—if the Town’s goal was to save money on salaries—the fired employee was first given the option of retaining her job at the new, “appropriate” salary.

If not, why not? And if the position was overpaid, why would a new job description need to be written in order to hire a replacement? Simple questions, yet apparently too tough to answer transparently.

expectations?”

Without a firm understanding of their answers in realistic and quantifiable terms, discussions by planners, developers, and Town Council are likely to be unproductive.

As well as understanding senior housing wants, we must understand the options as they are available now and potentially in the future, and the costs, to individuals and the community.

We must know the specifics of Pelham’s senior population’s age and expected income, and historical trends on the decisions seniors make as they progress through the housing market, and what motivates them. Only then will we understand how each of the four age groups transition through various housing options.

September 2016 data released by Canada Mortgage confirms that “80% of households over the age of 55 [live] in place and prefer not to move. In fact, households only move if health and finances necessitate it, or to be closer to family and friends.”

This confirms a 2012 Canada Mortgage study that shows three-quarters of pre-seniors (55-64 yrs) own their homes, and that twothirds of the 65-74 age group still own their homes. However, staying in one’s home until health or finances or other factor forces a move frequently leads to a lessthan-happy ending, as individuals often lose control over their options in such situations.

Planning and being proactive helps maintain control.

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An example of a seniors’ “Pocket Development” inserted into a larger mixed-use residential development. SUPPLIED PHOTO The two most significant housing transition periods are at retirement, and at the age when mental or physical health issues begin defining retirement housing needs.

Statistically, those downsizing, but retaining home ownership in some form before they have turned 65, are more likely and able to stay in their own homes longer.

They will have chosen homes that are more adaptable to their future needs, more affordable, and less expensive to maintain.

Those downsizing after age 65 are more likely to choose moving into an apartment.

For many in this situation, renting unlocks the capital in their homes, sometimes allowing a more luxurious retirement lifestyle.

The 2010 Toronto Dominion-Canada Trust Boomers Buyers Report found similar results—85% of younger seniors prefer home ownership. They report that nearly two-thirds of these Boomers (those straddling the pre-senior and young senior group) plan to buy a detached house for their transition home, stating that a garden and yard, as well as avoiding condo fees, are the prime motivators. They also hope that “rightsizing” will help them pay off any existing mortgages. Condos, on the other hand, will attract a quarter of younger seniors for reasons of security, amenities, and low maintenance.

After understanding some of these stated desires, considerations of affordability must be factored in.

Affordable housing in Ontario is loosely defined as shelter that costs 30% or less of before-tax household income.

Do these statistics and definitions apply in Pelham, and can they be used to plan affordable senior housing here?

Peter Papp, Pelham Councillor and Council’s representative to the Pelham seniors Advisory Committee says that yes, this can definitely be achieved in Pelham. In his estimation, “Three hundred thousand is affordable for a purchase, and the rental target needs to be eight hundred and fifty to a thousand dollars per month to be affordable.”

Papp believes the that issue of senior housing in Pelham is of critical importance, and he says that the needed demographic, income and wealth data is available within the Region and Niagara Region Housing.

Papp notes that Pelham is ranked third-highest in income, and fifth-highest in wealth, amongst Ontario communities and that this presents unique challenges.

“Current rents in town are fifteen hundred to seventeen hundred, and that’s too high to be affordable for many,”

Papp says. Developers talk about building housing that will rent for $2,500-plus per month, a number Papp tells them is too high.

“Who’s going to pay thirty thousand dollars a year to rent whether they can afford it or not? We need mixed developments,” continues Papp, referring to developments where af-

There are no requirements for developers to include affordable seniors housing fordable senior housing is included within the plan of subdivision, allowing seniors to participate fully in the broader community.

“Developers can afford this,” he says. “They can take less margin on a portion of the development, and still achieve a suitable profit on the project as a whole.”

In her position as Director of Community Planning & Development for the Town of Pelham, Barbara Wiens must approach developers in a more pragmatic manner and within provincial housing regulations.

“The issue of affordable seniors housing in Pelham and the need to do something about it has been identified,” she says.

She confirms, however, that as of now there are no requirements for developers to include affordable seniors housing in subdivision plans that they submit to Council.

“The official plan is the guiding document as to what can be demanded of developers,” Wiens explains, and Pelham’s official plan does not contain such requirements. (Provincial legislation in place when Pelham’s Official Plan was passed did not allow municipalities to have so-called “inclusive” bylaws.) Hence, says Wiens, “Council has no jurisdiction.

We can’t tell housing developers what they must build.”

Although constrained to working within official guidelines, Wiens is far from unsympathetic with the need for affordable senior housing. “It’s a struggle for so many,” is her assessment, suggesting many in Pelham are property-rich but face an uncertain retirement income stream. To ensure that future developments are more mixed, she adds, the official See SENIORS Page 14

In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court.

In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 90-Day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension and are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle on a roadway. The public is encouraged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service Traffic Safety Hotline or Crime Stoppers to report those who are driving in contravention of the suspension.

The following individuals have been charged criminally with impaired driving by alcohol or drugs, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or refusing to provide a breath / blood sample.

Allison L. CHAPMAN, 30, St. Catharines Devan A. PARKER, 23, St. Catharines Christopher M. RENNIE, 29, Niagara Falls Sean P. HARRIS, 41, Cayuga Marcel L. BERTRAND, 68, Thorold Farjad A. KHAN, 27, Richmond Hill Bradley E. BOYKO, 32, West Lincoln Richard LEPP, 57, Fort Erie Bradley McMANUS, 32, Grimsby Preston D. COOKE, 25, St. Catharines Dwayne D. GREENOUGH, 29, Niagara Falls Allan R. WILKINSON, 52, Niagara Falls Shalotte P. STEVENS, 26, St. Catharines Angela R. BONDIO, 51, Welland Jacques R. COUSINEAU, 56, Port Colborne Michael W. HESSE, 53, St. Catharines Terry A. VANANDEL, 33, Lincoln Brent W. GALE, 43, Fort Erie Derik PORTH, 26, Kenmore, NY Marnie L. MORLEY, 40, Welland Scott E. SCHOLTENS, 40, St. Catharines Aneeq NAJAM, 20, Niagara Falls Paolo DELUCA, 51, Mississauga Janetta A. DAVIDSON, 25, Buffalo, NY Alisha JACOBS, 30, Thamesville Christopher L. McLAREN, 45, Niagara Falls Roger R. MARIN, 41, Niagara Falls Tammy L. TAYLOR, 45, Niagara Falls Joseph L. JEFFERIES, 23, Buffalo, NY Kevin C. KILPATRICK, 45, St. Catharines Aimable HARERIMANA, 45, St. Catharines Remo R. BENEDETTI, 41, Fort Erie The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives every year.

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 3

Service of Hope helps people cope with loss

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

Pat Laing.

NATE SMELLE PHOTO

Fonthill’s Pat Laing to join Basketball Hall of Fame

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

There are few individuals with a sporting career as long and as rich as Fonthill resident Pat Laing’s.

Throughout the 42 years she spent as a basketball official she has received many awards from officiating organizations at local, regional and international levels, including Ontario Basketball, Western University and the Province of Ontario. Early in the New Year she will add another trophy to her collection when she is inducted into the Ontario Basketball Hall of Fame in Toronto.

Her love for basketball began as a child when her father introduced her to the game. Since then she has experienced her sport of choice in nearly every way possible. Starting out by shooting hoops for fun as a fan, Laing moved onto the court to eventually compete as a forward for Western University at the Intercollegiate level from 1950 until 1954. Upon graduating from the Department of Physical Health and Recreation Education at Western, she headed north to the University of Toronto where she studied at the Ontario College of Education. Taking on a teaching position at Whitby District High School for the next two years, she began her career as a coach. From 1957 until 1959 she moved back to London, Ontario to work as an instructor at Western and coach the women’s basketball team. While in this role Laing led the team to compete in the Women’s Intercollegiate Athletic Union (WIAU) Championships in both 1958 and 1959, where they were awarded the original Bronze Baby trophy.

It was at this point she began officiating on a regular basis. Her skills as an official developed quickly because of the knowledge and talent she acquired on the court. By 1964 she was already officiating the WIAU Basketball Championships. Refereeing games at such a high level is not any easy task, according to Laing. There are many components that come together to make a good of-

ficial.

“A good official always needs to have control of the game,” she said.

“You also have to be physically fit just to keep up. I really liked all the running, but it’s not for everyone. You also have to be aware of your positioning and know your signals to be able to manage the game. The adrenaline starts to rise when the game starts and you have to rise to the occasion.”

During her career, Laing said she has seen the game

A good official always needs to have control of the game

For many, Christmas is a joyous time of year to spend time with family and friends. However for those grieving the loss of a loved one it can be painfully lonely. To help people deal with their grief the Pelham Clergy Fellowship’s (PCF) held a Service of Hope on Wednesday, Dec. 7. A congregation of 30 gathered at the Glad Tidings Church of God for the annual bereavement service. Organized in collaboration with the Pedlar and Lampman Funeral Homes, the Rev. Dr. Garry van Bruchem of Fonthill United Church said the service provides people with an opportunity to deal with their grief as a community.

Another of the service’s co-organizers, the Rev. Dianne Walker of Pelham Community Church in Fenwick, led the gathering through the Time of Remembrance candle lighting ceremony.

“We light this first candle to remember those whom we have loved and lost,” Walker told the crowd as she lit the first candle.

“We pause to remember clearly their faces, their voices, their bodies. We embrace and give thanks to the memories that bind them to us.”

See LAING Page 3

Bruce Young and his brothers Harland and Bill have attended the service for the past 10 years to honour the memory of their parents and grandparents. Although Bill could not make it to this year’s gathering, Harland drove from Waterloo to carry on the family tradition.

“There is nothing like this service in Waterloo or Kitchener that I know of,” Harland said.

“It is very meaningful for me to be here together with my brothers and to remember our loved ones.”

Bruce said one of the things he enjoys most about the service is the time

he spends with his brothers reminiscing and sharing stories about their relatives who have passed. By reflecting on the good times they had with their family and friends who have passed away, he said they feel comfort in keeping their loved ones’ memories alive.

“Bereavement is very different for everybody,” said Bruce.

“For the three of us this is an opportunity for us to come together as a family in the way we did before or family grew. It’s a reason for us to reunite and remember.”

IN THE NEWS Truck, ATV, boat stolen

A pickup, ATV and boat, which were all located in their owner’s driveway on Foss Road were reported stolen on Dec 4 including a boat trailer which was attached to the truck.

The truck is a 2008 Chevrolet, blue with 35” tires on black rims and black wheel flares over the tires. It has 2 stickers on the back window, “Jackall” and sticker of antlers (faded).

The ATV in the bed of the truck was a 2010 CANAM, red, with 4 rubber trax instead of tires.

The boat was a 1999 Crestliner bass boat, burgundy and tan in colour.

Investigation continues. Police have plates and identification numbers on file.

Residential theft

change in many ways. One of the biggest changes to women’s basketball came in the early 1970s with the transition from a half court to a full court game.

“We previously played under a different set of rules then the men that was based on the U.S. style of basketball,” Laing said.

“Merging with the men’s association when we switched rules was very helpful for us during the transition. Since we would have the same set of rules it made sense not to duplicate everything.”

While working as an official Laing also got involved in the sport on the administrative level as a member of the IAABO. At the local level, she served as Chair of the London Board of Women Officials from 1961 until 1963, and the Niagara District of Women Officials from 1965 until 1966. She also got involved at the regional level serving on the District Committee of Officials Rating Board from 1968 until 1974. Laing continued

From left, volunteers Morgan Shute, Maria Shany and Anna Nurtaugh serve hot beverages and delicious desserts following the Service of Hope.

VOICE PHOTO

Police say that sometime between Dec 4 and Dec 6 persons entered a residence on Chestnut Street near Broad Street through an unlocked sliding window and stole a DeWalt circular saw. No one was home at the time.

Thefts from vehicles

On Dec 5, a resident of Canboro Rd. near Church St. reported that her vehicle’s real license plate was removed and replaced with another one that had been previously reported stolen.

Where and when the switch occurred she didn’t know.

Also on Dec 5, resident on Abbott Place off Kline Cres. noticed someone acting suspiciously near a neighbor’s vehicle, but by the time he got outside the person was gone. Change was taken from the vehicle.

On Dec 8, at 4:30AM on Metler Rd. between Effingham and Centre a car owner heard his vehicle alarm go off. He found the car open but no one around. Nothing was taken.

Missing mom and daughter found

The Canada-wide search for Allana Haist and her daughter Layla Sabry is now over. During the early morning hours of Monday Dec. 12, Layla Sabry and her mother Allana Haist were located in Hamilton. Both were in good health and Layla was returned to the care of her grandparents. An Amber alert had been issued for Haist when the two didn’t appear at a custody hearing on Friday, Dec. 2. Police

then issued a Canada-wide warrant for Haist on Dec. 6.

Allana Haist was arrested and charged with Abduction in Contravention of a Custody Order and was scheduled to attend a bail hearing later Monday.

Chamber award

Frank Sicoli, owner of Fonthill Shoppers Drug Mart is the recipient of the Welland-Pelham Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month award for November.

Second battery suspect nabbed

as a precautionary measure.

The NRPS was contacted by the Hamilton Police Service at 4 PM to report that the stolen Toyota had been located in Hamilton.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, investigators formed the opinion that grounds existed for the arrest of the father for putting the child at risk. As a result, last Sunday, police arrested the father for the offence of Abandoning a Child contrary to section 218 of the Criminal Code. The identity of the accused is not being released by police to protect the identity of the young victim.

The father was released on an Officer in Charge Undertaking to appear in court at a later date.

Police are still investigating the theft of the motor vehicle and are requesting anyone with information to call the 1 District Detective Office at 905-6884111

Region approves 2017 budget

Last Thursday, Regional Council approved its 2017 budget of $1.1 billion, Detectives from the Niagara Regionwith $479 million coming from Niagaal Police in 3 District, Welland have ra’s tax and rate payers. Residents will continued their investigation into a see a two percent increase on the Relarge scale theft of batteries in the city gional portion of their property tax bill of Welland between Nov 1 and Dec 3. next year. For the average household Last Thursday, the investigation with a home assessed at $240,500, the lead to the arrest of 18-year-old JoshRegional portion of their tax bill will ua Nuziato of Welland. He is charged increase by $28 in 2017, totaling $1,427 with Possession of Stolen Property and a year.

Breach of Probation. He is scheduled to 2017 Budget Highlights: $906,000 to appear in Welland Court at a later date. fund a new 24/7 shift of paramedics to Police have also recovered more of serve Niagara’s residents; $361,000 to the stolen batteries. help make Niagara Specialized Transit The investigation will continue and more affordable by bringing fares into it is believed at least two more suspects parity for traditional transit; $765,000 are involved. for inter-municipal transit infrastructure funding; $200,000 to bring the Car taken with child inside new Niagara-on-the-Lake wastewater Last Friday, a 911 caller reported that treatment plant online. his black 2007 Toyota Prius had been Regional Council also approved the stolen with his 2-year-old son in it. 2017 capital budget of $206 million The car had been parked and left unat- to support the following projects: $30 tended with the child inside in the area million towards the implementation of Welland Avenue and Geneva Street of daily GO rail service to Niagara; $8 in St. Catharines. million to upgrade and improve NiagAt about 3 PM police received an- ara social housing stock; $12.5 million other 911 call reporting that the child for general road resurfacing and rehad been dropped off at a business in pair; $12 million to begin the planGrimsby. Paramedics from Niagara ning and design for the redevelopment Emergency Medical Services attended of three of Niagara Region’s long-term and assessed the child. The child ap- care homes; $14 million to provide new peared to be well and in good health.

See IN THE NEWS Page 6 He was transported to a local hospital

Page 4

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OPINION

The opinions expressed in submitted commentary and letters to the editor are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Voice of Pelham.

The Voice of Pelham is a 1211858 Ontario Limited publication David Burket, Publisher 8-209 Hwy 20 E, Fonthill, ON L0S1E6

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Nick Saltarelli Faith and Politics Editor's Note: This commentary contains a word that may offend some readers. Its use neither represents the views of the Voice nor of the author. It has been left intact to preserve historical accuracy in the telling of the story.

I

’M A SKEPTIC who acknowledges the value of faith. That I myself have none, unfortunately or otherwise, doesn’t influence my regard for those who do and, I fully expect, theirs for me.

My wife of 43 years is a lifelong Christian. Many in our family belong to the same global congregation, though I do not. We get along regardless. I love them, they love me. Love lifts us high above our differences.

Over the decades, as my wife and I crisscrossed the country with worldly possessions in tow, couples from her welcoming congregations became fast friends. Jehovah’s Witnesses are good people. I like them. Apparently they like me too. End of story.

Well, not quite.

The latest census reports that 8 out of 10 voters in Niagara West-Glanbrook identifies as religious. If you, dear reader, belong to any of the riding’s countless Christian and non-Christian congregations you

might have grimaced just now at the mention of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

If you’re one of the remaining 2 out of 10 who admit

Yet pervasive forms of faith-based intolerance thrive like weeds in our own backyard to no religious affiliation at all, you probably grimaced too. Now everybody’s grimacing. Good. We’re all on the same page. But don’t for a moment imagine we’ll interpret the words on the page the same way.

Faith bestows hope and purpose and comfort upon billions around the world.

But faith can manifest a dark side.

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It can mutate into grotesque intolerance, prompting a deranged punk to carry a gun into a Baptist church to blow out the brains of the worshippers inside, or to detonate a Ryder truck loaded with high explosives opposite a daycare in a Federal building, or fly a jetliner into a skyscraper, or blow himself and scores of innocents to bits in a bazaar or a mosque or at a wedding, or murder an abortion doctor on his doorstep with his kids looking on. Yeah. Enough already. But it happens; thankfully for the most part in places far from our idyllic lives here in Pelham.

Yet pervasive forms of faith-based intolerance thrive like weeds in our own backyard — determined social conservatism rejecting hard-won civil liberties which, given the opportunity, will overturn contemporary laws that protect minority rights and freedoms.

Jehovah’s Witnesses understand that’s wrong. In spades. They were numSee FAITH Page 15

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca MANAGING EDITOR & PUBLISHER Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca NEWS EDITOR Nate Smelle editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CORRESPONDENT John Swart jswart7@cogeco.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters Looking for Lili, and found the unexpected I just want to bring attention and gratefully acknowledge the wonderful community that we have in Pelham.

Our Border Collie Lili ran away on a foggy night in November.

I called Welland and St. Catharines SPCA, and Pelham Town Hall to see if they knew anything about Lili, dead or alive.

The response was overwhelming.

Christine Tonon from Public Works alerted the

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West

Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900 Member of Provincial Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West-Glanbrook

The Voice

A safer, more humane, drug-free way to increase the size of livestock.

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP P.O. Box 35 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 www.samoosterhoff.ca/Contact 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Councillor Brian Baty 742 Memorial Dr. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 905-892-5317 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607

Mayor of Pelham David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Members of Pelham Town Council Ward 1 Councillor Richard Rybiak rrybiak@pelham.ca 905-892-2105

road crew, fire department, and dog rescue volunteers.

Christine Tonon from Public Works alerted the road crew, fire department, and dog rescue volunteers Everybody put Lili’s picture on Facebook.

Christine Tonon and Susan Poisson came here personally looking for her. They put up posters, delivered flyers in the neighbourhood.

I saw neighbours searching ditches and fields.

We did not think she would survive. She was 15

Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-684-4870 Ward 2 Councillor Catherine King cking@pelham.ca 905-658-8599 Councillor Gary Accursi gaccursi@pelham.ca 905-892-5528

years old, blind and deaf.

After three days she was found in a culvert lying in the muddy water, shivering, by our neighbours Debbie and Don Dykstra.

We dried her, kept her warm. Susan brought pediatric electrolyte drink and we used a syringe to revive her. Two days she did not move.

On the third day she got up, she started eating and she could walk.

We don’t know what will happen in the future, her age is against her. She is a fighter.

But for now she is safe and warm.

And whatever happens, I will always remember Lili in happier times. Waking me up in the morning with her squeaky toys, full of mischief and excitement.

Pulling the lawnmower out of the shed, enticing me to cut the grass everyday, so See LILI Page 5

NEWSFLASH Tell us your story Introducing Column Six, presenting tales of personal triumph, adventure, strange-but-true stories, life-changing events, and looks-back at our past.

Ward 3 Councillor John Durley jdurley@pelham.ca 905-892-5388 Councillor Peter Papp ppapp@pelham.ca 905-328-6008

Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit?

Did you meet your spouse-to-be in jail or on an African safari?

Do you know where Hoffa’s buried?

Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca (You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome provided the submission contains the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published.

Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity or legal reasons. All material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher. ADVERTISING: The Voice of Pelham regrets any errors or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication.

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Well don't just sit there. Share it with the Voice! letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca

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Letters

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 5

continued

Loves Bradshaw

Still maintains that Trump unfairly treated by news media

Bad service

A couple of weekends past, I had the absolute pleasure of a lengthy walk through Bradshaw Park on Chantler Road in Pelham.

I followed every path in the 50-acre park and was overcome with emotion.

It has been almost 20 years since the park was dedicated, in perpetuity, as a nature park in memory of Mr. Harold Bradshaw and what a beautiful memory to leave us with.

As I walked I recalled the events that led to the dedication, the wonderful group of people in The Friends of Bradshaw Park and the overwhelming support of a community who could see the vision.

Today, Bradshaw Park is home to a burgeoning forest that will continue to evolve in that perfect way only nature can fashion.

It was wonderful to see many people in the park on that Sunday and I smiled as a feeling of happiness and contentment rose in me with the knowledge that it was worth it!

Tracy Jennings St. Catharines

Well Shannon, I do understand defending your father [Letters, “Trump supporter misses the point, Dec. 7]. It is a noble thing to do. However your insulting, assuming letter and your comments about Donald Trump are picked from the “news media” that more accurately could be described as the Clinton campaign’s advertising arm.

Discussion is the art of presenting evidence taken from research not “news” soundbites. Advancing ad hominem attacks on a person is a low level activity designed to detract from a person’s actual arguments.

Where did you get your information?

The news media?

That was my point. When we believe everything we read or hear about anybody we are assuming that it is true.

You obviously as well believe all you hear about Donald Trump from the media.

I could rest my case now. That is the problem we have in this day and age.

And you have been caught in the trap.

I refuse to insult you, but I must correct your ideas that are simply opinions. By the way, just because someone favours a particular candidate does not mean that the candidate supports all those people. I could name a murderer who supports your arguments. That does not mean you support the murderer, does it?

Oh and by the way since you have listened to many of Donald Trump’s speeches, what else does he have to

Life is funny sometimes, but not the way you want it to be, because just after reading the letter last week from the lady badly treated by a parking attendant my husband and I had a similar experience right here in Fonthill.

We had some questions about our property taxes and went to Town Hall. While we waiting on line we couldn’t help but hear the man in front of us, who was probably in his 80s, asking the clerk questions. This clerk actually sighed with annoyance and said sharply “I can’t help you sir!” and looked around him to us and waved us forward impatiently.

The clerk pretended that the man wasn’t there any more. We felt so embarrassed, and then also angry.

It was even worse for us.

The property tax due dates were confusing and all we want to know was when payments were truly due, because we received different advice from our realtor.

LILI continued from Page 4 I can be with her outside a little longer.

She would make sure everybody is in bed at night.

She would look for the cat in the evening and bring him inside.

She was typical Border Collie when she was young.

Smart, energetic, fearless, stubborn and hyperactive.

It was sad to watch her grow old and insecure.

But she is still here, my “miracle dog” and she hasn’t given up yet.

It is still a very difficult time for us.

Despite all the sadness and worry, it was an amazing experience.

I can’t believe the

say? Is that the only thing he says?

“I’m the best” to quote you?

Discussion is the art of presenting evidence taken from research not “news” soundbites

Your letter reflects exactly what is wrong with the average person who hears soundbites here and there and since the soundbites support our view, we believe them.

Did you have any background research? I do not see any.

I will reiterate that I have researched by reading two books, and numerous articles with evidence not just accusations which support what I said.

I am not saying Donald Trump is a perfect man, just as neither you nor I are perfect.

I could mention that Hillary Clinton has actually done nothing of note, except get paid for being a politician. If

thoughtfulness and kindness of our community.

I am incredibly touched and grateful to people like Susan and Christine, friends and neighbours, colleagues at work.

Volunteers like Susan and Christine do this just for the love of the animals. They never get any credit or recognition and their only reward is to see these animals

safely at home.

With all the problems, crime and selfishness in our society, it is nice to see this side of human nature.

Thank you everybody! You restored my faith in kindness and generosity.

Dana Stefko Fenwick

See BAD SERVICE Page 6

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Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

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you wish I can give you many quotes that people who have been in her employ have seen and heard her say which show that she is a two-faced politician. She does one thing while espousing the other.

Donald Trump has provided jobs for thousands of people and actually built things. He has taken areas of New York City that were literally dumps and turned them into useful buildings or activity centres.

So now are you saying from little if any evidence that our new MPP is sexist, racist and a “hater”, whatever that is.

Hate is not all one-sided Shannon, it seems like you hate those who do not agree with you by the tone of your letter. So are you allowed to hate various groups that you label, but if they hate what you believe in, that is wrong?

Isn’t that a bit of a narcisstic attitude?

Perhaps you might think about taking your own advice and stop hating individuals and groups that do not agree with you. And it seems that most of Niagara West disagrees with you, so do you hate all of them as well? (Oh and by the way Shannon, regardless of your beliefs and unsubstantiated opinions I do not hate you one little bit. You have simply been caught in the web.)

Charles Pedley Fonthill

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Page 6

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

IN THE NEWS continued from Page 3 water infrastructure to support population growth in Grimsby.

“I am looking forward to the exciting projects and initiatives that will flow from the 2017 budget, said Carmen D’Angleo, Chief Administrative Office, “and ensuring we are moving Council’s strategic priorities forward.”

Keying suspect arrested

In mid-November, police say that the 1 District Criminal Investigation Branch commenced an investigation regarding numerous

vehicles being vandalized in the downtown St. Catharines area.

The suspect would scratch the paint of the vehicles, using a sharp instrument to cause the damage. As a result of their investigation, police say they identified the suspect responsible for these acts of vandalism. Last Thursday, police arrested and charged 36year-old Shawn Keddy with 4 counts of Mischief Under $5,000 and Fail to Comply with Probation.

Overdose awareness

Niagara EMS would like to ensure the public are aware of the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, now

increasingly common in Niagara.

Symptoms include: Slow breathing and heart rate; severe drowsiness; cold, clammy skin which may appear blue in colour; very small pupils; not responsive to shouting or shaking.

Witnesses to these signs and symptoms are encouraged to call 911, as it is a medical emergency.

Narcan (Naloxone) is a medication administered to temporarily reverse the symptoms of an opioid overdose. Narcan is available for free at several locations such as Positive Living Niagara and some pharmacies.

Forster tables legislation

Last week, Welland MPP Cindy Forster tabled legislation that would ensure greater transparency and accountability within conservation authority boards across the province. The bill, if passed, would require that at least half of the membership of conservation authority boards includes individuals with significant training, experience or employment history in an environmental or natural resource field.

The bill comes on the heels of recent developments in the Region that have community groups raising questions about the management and operation

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of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. On Dec 5, St. Catharine’s City Council passed a motion receiving unanimous consent that urges the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry to conduct a forensic financial audit of the NPCA. “What we’re seeing across the province are conservation authority boards that aren’t putting the protection of the environment first,” said Forster.

“I recognize that development is an important and very necessary part of any region’s growth, but in pursuit of those projects, it’s critical for us as legislators to ensure that we strike the appropriate balance of economic growth that ensures

the protection of our fragile ecosystems.”

BAD SERVICE

to know the area. We are in our late 60s and we know that technology has to move on etc., but I know I speak for many in our age group and older people who want nothing to do with all this online world. We want to speak to people face to face, and we want our news from newspapers not Facebook and YouTube and websites that just promote their own interests.

For goodness sake for the taxes we pay (much higher than in Toronto!!) we deserve to be treated with more respect. Thank you.

Aggrieved in Fonthill

continued from Page 5

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This person treated us like simpletons. The expression on the clerk’s face never changed, like the person was sucking on lemons. The clerk never smiled or acted sympathetic in any way. The dates are clearly printed here and here the clerk said—more impatience. It was a terrible way to treat the taxpayers who pay this person’s salary. This person barely ever looked at us at all, only at the computer, and the papers we took in.

When we got home we were still so upset that my husband decided to make a complaint but when he called the Town Hall he got only recordings. So we tried on the internet (we had already tried to solve our tax question online even with the help of our grandson), but again got frustrated by a web site that looks designed to discourage people from using it.

Maybe all this all sounds too negative, but we are frustrated by the way we were treated by someone who should be serving us, not the other way around and an impossible website.

We moved to Fonthill in August and are still getting

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905.562.5831

Editor’s Note: For reasons provided to us, the paper has agreed to withhold the writer’s name. We have also edited the letter to remove any identifying reference—including gender—related to the clerk’s identity. The Voice reached out to Mayor Augustyn to ask whether staff who routinely meet the public go through any sort of recurring customer service training, whether a certain minimum level of customer service is expected from front-line employees, and, if so, how this is assessed. The Mayor declined to answer, referring us instead to CAO Darren Ottaway.

Mr. Ottaway did not respond by press time.

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A search warrant was executed as part of the investigative process undertaken last week by the Lincoln County Humane Society after allegations of animal abuse were brought forth against Dr. Mahavir Rekhi and the Skyway Animal Hospital in St. Catharines.

“We are being very thorough with our investigation process and we can’t speculate on when this investigation is completed.

We appreciate the public’s patience while we continue to address the evidence and concerns brought forth.”

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 7

Page 8

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SURVEY OF THE WEEK RESULTS

Spending at Summerfest

BY VOICE STAFF

SANTA’S PARADE IN FENWICK Last Saturday, Santa Claus came to town accompanied by a horse-drawn carriage, the E.L. Crossley Marching Band, and a plenty of onlookers. Top left, Santa waves to his fans. Top right, Corey Martindale and his sister Mallory hug to stay warm as they wait to catch a glimpse of Santa. Above, scouts of all ages having a good time on the Fonthill Scouting Group’s float.

NATE SMELLE PHOTOS

There were 249 valid responses to last week’s survey on Summerfest 2016 spending. Call it confirmation bias or plain old common sense—results indicate a far lower financial impact than the $2 million dollars-plus asserted by the Town.

At right we see the attendance breakdown. A bit over half of you attended a single day of Summerfest, and 1 in 5 did not attend at all.

What did you spend your money on?

Not a single respondent answered anything other than alcohol, food, or nothing. Clearly the trinket vendors drew in the crowds, and there must have been some sales, but thirst and hunger came out on top for Voice readers.

So how much did you spend?

20% of you said you spent $40 or more. 45% of you said you spent up to $40.

And 35% of you said not a nickel.

Respondents were overwhelmingly located in Pelham (83%), with the remainder elsewhere in Niagara (12%), and a handful from across the river in the U.S. (5%).

While not rigorously scientific, we think that these survey results seriously challenge the town’s $2 million dollar claim.

No days 21% 3+ days 21%

1 day 54%

2 days 8% How many days did you attend?

Nothing 33%

Alcohol 33%

Food 33% What did you buy at Summerfest?

THIS WEEK'S SURVEY QUESTION Will you be able to stay in Pelham in your later years?

Find a link to the survey from our website, www. thevoiceofpelham.ca/later or find it from our Facebook page, or use your smartphone to read the QR code presented here. Look for results in next week’s Voice!

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 9

The Fonthill Nurdles. Front row: Vanessa Bilsburough, Laura Schaefer, Crystal Coyne, Alex Rubino. Back row: Mason DeFazio, Sarah Schaefer and Jacob Cheung. SUPPLIED PHOTO ACTION ON THE ICE Recently the Country Corner Pelham Panthers peewee LL1 took part in the Stayner tournament. After a loss against the Stayner home team they faced the Barrie team in the B championship round. The boys fought back and forth and finished the third period with a tie. It went into overtime where our Panthers came out victorious with 10 seconds left on the clock. Congratulations to Gordy A., Zach B., Ethan B., Lucas C., Ayden G., Lucas G., George K., Eddie L., Noah M., Ryker M., Finn M., Ethan M., James R., Riley R. and Matthew Z. for a job well done. SUPPLIED PHOTO

Stolk Construction Pelham Panthers Bantam AE’s took Gold in the 2016 Winston Watson Memorial Tournament. Top row: A. Loscavo, Z. Kuhn, C. Morrison, M. Stolk, D. Colangelo, G. Martinson, T. Leavens, W. Guitard. Middle row: E. Doherty, O. Darling, Lower row: J. Obdeyn, O. Warren, N. Sloan, J. Falardeau. Coaches: Len Stolk, Tony Colangelo, Michael Kuhn.

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Nurdling their way to victory At the Niagara Regional First Lego League (FLL) Competition, a local team recently took home top honors. The Fonthill Nurdles are comprised of six students from St. Alexander School and one homeschooled student. Although First Lego League is a robotics program, the students also do a research problem and come up with an innovative solution to solve a real world problem. The students design and build a robot to complete a number of tasks on an 8 x 4ft table. They compete in three rounds of 2 ½ minutes to try to earn the top score in the robot game. In the judging sessions, they are also judged on how they incorporate the core values of

Just in time for Christmas

teamwork and good sportsmanship, robot mechanical design and programming, and their project.

The theme of the season this year is Animal Allies.

Teams are required to research interactions between human and animals and select an interaction to study, identify a problem and come up with an innovative solution. For their project, the Fonthill Nurdles explored the problem of declining bee populations and developed a source for clean water for bees called the “Bee Hydration Station.”

The Nurdles found out that bees need access to clean, uncontaminated water for cooling, digestion of nectar and pollen, food for larva and honey production.

Without the pollination performed by bees our grocery stores would look a lot different; we would be lacking many fruits and vegetables, jams, and juices that come from sources that need to be pollinated by bees.

The Nurdles hope to produce their Bee Hydration Station and have it in bee yards for testing next spring.

The competition was held at the Governor Simcoe High School in St. Catharines on Saturday, December 3. The Nurdles had the third- highest robot score of the day and overall won the First Place Champions Award. They will go on to the Provincial West Competition at the University of Waterloo in February.

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Page 10

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

H

OPE. It is “a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” We feel it every day, in different ways — hoping your favourite sports team will win their game, or hoping that a special occasion will be everything you imagined, or cautiously hoping that an elected leader will bring about something new and better. These are all examples of hope, and we all feel it often.

But what about when hope is dashed? What if you were hoping to enjoy a long life with someone, or if you hoped that a loved one would recover from an illness, but your hopes did not come to pass? How do you pick up and keep going? Last week, our church was honoured to host this year’s Service of Hope, an inspirational bereavement service offered to the community during the Christmas season, a time

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FAITH & FAMILY Ask the Pastor: Commentary by Daniel Calgagno

Season of Hope when the loss of a loved one can be especially evident. It was a wonderful evening of contemplation, remembering how God comforts us and fills us with hope.

For Christians, the Christmas season is one of hope, as we remember that our ultimate hope is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. The

biblical narrative tells us that the people of Israel longed for a Messiah, a saviour to rescue them from the evils of this age. The Christmas story tells the birth of that long-awaited saviour, and it is a wonderful thing to celebrate; it is a celebration of hope. Hope is an important component of the Christian life; sometimes,

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca we Christians can give the impression that we have it all together, that we know without question what our future holds. However, the reality is that biblical faith is predicated upon hope.

Though we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus, our current reality is that Jesus is not here right now; we are waiting in hope for his return. Rather than being a sad thing, this time in which we hope is actually an opportunity to express God’s love to the community, something that is especially true during the Christmas season. The

hope that we Christians feel during this season spreads out to others and it seems as if people become more optimistic, more peaceful, and more giving. The way people transform during this season is a little taste of what is to come. You see, the Christmas story is not just about the past; it is about the future. We Christians believe one day the whole world will be transformed and we will have world peace. For now, this belief is just a hope, so let us do all we can to make that hope a reality in our lives today!

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“It’s your town, so if you want something to change get involved and make a difference. When you do, it will always be there so in ten years from now when you drive by you can say I was a part of making that change happen. That’s what gives us the drive, gives us pride and builds community spirit.”

qr

Beaver Russell Letford.

SUPPLIED PHOTO

Beavering for Habitat The Third Fonthill Beaver Colony has been busy over the past few weeks building tool boxes to sell as fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity Niagara.

The Beavers are a group of boys and girls ages 5 – 7 who are part of the over 65,000 youth involved in Scouts Canada programs. Scouts Canada’s mission is “To

help develop well rounded youth, better prepared for success in the world” – building toolboxes helped these children achieve that mission and much more.

“One of the key program areas with the brand new Canadian Path program of Scouts Canada is CitizenSee BEAVERS Page 13

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 11

Time for Thai in Fonthill

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

Steven Kozak.

VOICE PHOTO

Steven Kozak celebrates century mark

BY NATE SMELLE

The VOICE

Family and friends of long-time Fonthill resident Steven Kozak gathered at Lookout Ridge Retirement Home on Saturday, Dec. 3 for a very special occasion — to celebrate his 100th birthday early.

“I had a full house on the weekend and it was very, very nice,” Kozak said.

Born on Dec. 26, 1916, Kozak has lived in Fonthill for some 80 years.

In that time, he has seen the town transform from a small rural village to the busy community it is today.

“I was a small kid when my father moved here and bought a farm just below Fonthill,” he said.

“I lived there until I was 22 years old and then I got a job at Atlas. This is my home.”

An avid golfer throughout most of his life, Kozak first picked up a set of clubs

working as a caddy at the Lookout Golf and Country Club. Taking advice from the golf-pros offering lessons at the course he went on to become a lifetime member for 60 years.

A seasoned veteran of the sport he still to this day shares his golf tips with anyone interested in honing their skills.

“I don’t want to brag but I was a pretty good golfer,” he laughed.

“You have to be honest and play your ball in the rough. It’s a competition with yourself so every time you play you need to do your best and play to win.”

He believes his longevity is partly due to the time he spent walking and keeping fit on the golf course.

The secret to a having a long life he says is simple — living a healthy lifestyle.

“I didn’t smoke, I didn’t drink, I kept healthy,” Kozak says.

Dining options in downtown Pelham just keep getting better. With the opening of the Young Thai restaurant on Hwy 20 a whole new array of flavours have been added to the list of local dining experiences.

Beautifully decorated with art from Thailand, Young Thai provides a relaxing atmosphere and an exciting menu. Nida Saelee is the owner and manager of the new restaurant, located in the former San Marcos building.

Moving to Welland from Toronto where she managed her family’s restaurant for 20 years, she says she is very happy to have chosen to bring her business to Pelham.

“I really love it here, everyone is so kind,” Saelee says.

“We have had really good feedback from people so far.

There are quite a few people

Young Thai owner Nida Saelee. who have been back a few times already and we have only been open for three weeks.”

Passionate about cooking and food, Saelee says she enjoys spending time in the kitchen.

Serving a wide variety of meat and seafood dishes, she says almost everything on the menu can be made vegetarian or vegan.

NATE SMELLE PHOTO

Taking pride in the dishes they serve she says they use only the best quality ingredients.

“We cook traditional Thai recipes so we have to bring in special ingredients from Thailand so we can get the flavor right,” she says.

“There are not many Thai restaurants in the area and we are the only one in Fonthill, so our menu gives

people in town new options when they feel like going out for dinner.”

Located at 10 Hwy 20 in East Fonthill, Young Thai serves a special lunch menu every day from 11 AM to 3 PM between Monday to Friday, and a full menu after 3 PM on weekdays and all day on Saturday and Sunday.

Town Christmas card celebrates young artists

BY VOICE STAFF The Council chamber was packed at the start of Council’s Monday, Dec. 5 meeting with the family and friends of 12 Pelham students whose drawings were chosen to be featured on the Town’s official Christmas card for 2016.

Celebrating the young art-

ists, Mayor Dave Augustyn thanked each of the children personally informing them that the cards would soon be sent out to local and regional dignitaries, the Premier of Ontario, Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Featured on the card was the work of student artists:

India Valli, Julia Woernert, Ashley Goedee, Myranda Hartley, Amelia Siolkowsky, Gwen Farrow, Maddie Morrison, Jayden Pelletier, Abigail Thibodeau, Laura Schaefer, Sarah Snelgrove and Emma Nigh.

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

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CHONG

cred. has become struck by the profound As the result of a SWAT raid on beauty of trees. continued from Page 1 The Voice of Pelham ad size Advertiser THE VOICE PELHAM his OF California home, Chong was “I’ve been connecting with trees Service Directory ad and noticing how beautiful Fonthilland Rlectric Ltd charged for helping to fi nance lately Creative most of his life, Chong says that Director w:2.5” x h: 1.75”they are for some time now,” says promote the family business that Contact Name Barton the marijuana plant providesTarja much he and his son Paris started in Chong.

Color Info Taryn Wilton more than just a healing medicine email 1999 — Chong Glass/Nice Dreams.

“Trees are really an extension of black only for people to enjoy.

Contact Phone graphics@thevoiceofpelham.ca All of the company’s merchanthe universe of humans. They have Because of its many industrial Due Date 905.401.5748 bongs and pipes the same sort of humanity as we Marketing dise—principally Director uses — paper, textiles, insulation, Friday, March 18 noon suitable for pot smoking, sold do.at They’re rooted into the earth Contact email Dave Burket paints,THE clothing, food, plastics, online—was seized, andinfo@fonthillelectric.ca he was and they communicate under the Rundate(s) cosmetics and as a construction email forced to pay a fine of $20,000 and with Mar. 23, Apr. 6,earth 20, May 4, 18,other trees. There’s a material — he says that cannabis advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca a forfeiture of $103,514. network of communication June 1, 15 andwhole 29. also has 905.892.8690 the potential to stimulate He was also sentenced to nine going on underneath the earth.” the economy, and more imporCost Approved By: months in a federal prison in Cal- Date: For Chong cannabis plays an imtantly heal the planet. $42 per insertion plus HST. ifornia. portant role in his spiritual growth As a Canadian-born citizen livTerrifying at times and inspiring because it gives him the clarity to Terms: Due on publication ing in the U.S., Chong says he has brain is truly beautiful, says see things through the “spirit’s at others the experience had a life seen firsthand how states embracChong, because it connects people changing effect upon him. eye” rather than just through huing the full legalization of cannato themselves and to the natural man eyes.

“The first night in jail I was like, bis such as Colorado and California world around them. oh man what’s happened here,” When people reach this point in have benefited from the new law.

By encouraging those who use it their spiritual evolution, he says, says Chong.

Citing the $2.4 billion the marito become fully present in the mo“I was in a dormitory with 250 they start to understand that evjuana industry legally generated in men, making men’s sounds at ment, he says, it helps people re- eryone is part of the same evolving Colorado in 2015, Chong says the alize who they really are and what universe while observing it in their night — farting, grunting and sooner Canada welcomes legalizagroaning and crying. When they they are destined to do with their own way. tion, the sooner Canadians will belife. turned the key to secure the door Taking advantage of the fact that gin to feel the medicinal, spiritual “We need our connections,” he everyone is evolving at their own lock on the cell I got claustrophoand economic value of cannabis. says. bic. I was on a little cot next to a speed is one of the ways Chong Beginning his career in the en“It connects us to ourselves. cement wall with another inmate says Donald Trump was able to tertainment industry as a musiSo many times people are full of on the top bunk who had sleep apconvince American voters to elect cian in Calgary in the early 1960s, fear and this fear is peer-presnea.” him as their next president.

Chong crossed over into comedy in sure, work, parents and all sorts of Losing nine months of freedom By employing the politics of 1971 after meeting Cheech Marin. strains and expectations that socifor simply selling glassware, one “fear and division,” he says the Fusing music and pot-themed ety will put on you. What cannabis might think the 78-year-old’s deformer reality TV star used igcomedy in their stand-up routine sire to defend the medicinal plant does is eliminate all that.” norance and hatred to divide and and many albums and films, the Every time he indulges in mar- conquer the electorate. would have simmered down. two went on to win a Grammy for Instead his passion for the herb ijuana he says it helps him to disDiagnosed with colorectal cancer their collaboration. cover the interconnectedness of all was reignited. He does not recomin June 2015, Chong decided to pay Chong says that it wasn’t until things in nature and throughout homage to the presidential canmend that everyone try it. Howafter a heavy-handed encounter the universe in a new way. ever he says if people would like to didate’s political methodology by with the law in 2003 that he deSpending as much time as pos- naming his colostomy bag after him. experience it they should be able to cided to become an activist and an sible appreciating the natural do it legally.

“I called it ‘The Donald’ because advocate for the plant he holds saThe way cannabis affects the world he is a part of, he says he it was always so full of s***,”

VOICE

So many times people are full of fear and this fear is peer-pressure, work, parents, and all sorts of strains

Tommy Chong.

NATE SMELLE PHOTO

Chong said, laughing.

“He lies to everybody, he lies to the Republicans, he lies so much that the truth just evolves out of the lies because he’s lying to people that are lying to themselves.”

Type your pithy letter to the Voice right this minute!

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The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

Page 13

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PAPER ROUTE December 12

learning.”

President of the Ontario Association of BasLaing’s illustrious career as a basketball ketball Officials from 1983 to 1985, before official is complemented by the 41 years she UB being elected as its president in 1985. At the also spent as a volleyball official. In 2005 she level,them LaingTuesdays also held the po-Pelham Arena alking ininternational Pelham? Join at the was honoured by the Niagara District Board sition of Women’s Coordinating Committee of Volleyball and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am.

ThereOfficials as a Life Member. OfChair with the International Association of ficiating has been one of the most rewarding Approved Basketball Offi cials (IAABO) from his program. For more information, please contact jcook@of her life. Through it Laing said experiences 1972 until 1977. She then joined IAABO’s Exshe has acquired many great friendships on call 905 892-2607, ext 329. ecutive Committee where she remained from both sides of the border.

1977 until 1983. Since retiring as an official in “I have met so many wonderful people 2001, she has remained active with IAABO. In through basketball,” Laing said.

Y FOR PELHAM CARES each of the positions Laing had the chance to “Working together on the court and at the see the sport from yet another h fruit and vegetables at the Marketangle. or bring a non-perishable administrative level you really get to know “You get quite a different perspective of the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on each Sept.other.

4. It is a real community.” the game as an official,” she said.

Laing encourages individuals interested in “Even coaches and players who have taken becoming a basketball official to visit OABO’s up officiating admit to that. When you get website at www.oabo.ca.

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ANCER RIDE involved on the administrative level you get Cancer LAING Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. to see the game differently again because you from Page 3 r the Bigcontinued Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker spend aFamlot of time researching the rules. Every year we review the rules so we are always ntre. to move up in the ranks serving as the Vice

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Beavers help Habitat for Humanity

Thisfrom ad Page is to10be continued

printed evolved. by all participating Ontario papers able home ownership.

ship,” explains Scouter Leah Marie.

“The focus is having the youth participate in projects that promote community involvement and one of the Colony program standards is Community Service Projects, which made the opportunity to work with Habitat for Humanity a great fit.”

The Beavers were interested in doing woodworking during one of their brainstorming sessions and from there the tool box project

With the materials donated from Habitat’s ReStore, the Scouters prepped the materials and with the help of parent volunteers the Beavers assembled the tool boxes at one of their weekly meetings.

The Beaver’s sold their handmade tool boxes at the ReStore in Fonthill on Saturday, December 3, with proceeds going toward Habitat Niagara’s homebuilding program, helping families across the Niagara region achieve the dream of afford-

“Our store was busy with cheerful Beavers and their colony leaders on Saturday,” said ReStore Manager, Jodi Krah.

“We were so pleased with the effort and enthusiasm these young children put forth to build and sell these rustic charming tool boxes.

Their community spirit of giving to others is alive and well!”



Page 14

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SENIORS continued from Page 2 plan must be changed.

“We have to wait on two new Legislative Bills to change this, Bill 204 and Bill 7,” says Wiens. As of this writing, Bill 7, the umbrella legislation called “Promoting Affordable Housing Act, 2016,” has passed its third reading, and is waiting Royal Assent.

Just last Wednesday, Bill 204 was carried in its third reading, making the tool Wiens says municipalities need to mandate inclusion of affordable housing a reality. Municipalities now have the option to implement inclusionary zoning, which requires affordable housing units to be included in residential developments.

Concillor Papp mentions that Pelham’s relative affluence does not help the Town when applying for affordable housing grants and funding, although he says that there are still mechanisms available to assist developers.

“Reducing town development fees is likely within the scope of what’s reasonable to gain affordable seniors housing.”

Papp cites examples of devel-

From left: Barbara Wiens, Dick Halverson, Councillor Peter Papp, Councillor Catherine King. opers, including a consortium from western New York, that expect or want their towns to offer incentives like free taxes for a year, which Papp doesn’t see as feasible for Pelham.

Dick Halverson, lead consultant and founder of JustShelter Consulting in St Catharines, also thinks affordable senior housing is achievable in Pelham. He has served as the primary development consultant for more than 20 non-profit housing projects, including Pelham’s own Town Square Manor, where he assisted Fonthill Baptist Church, Holy Trinity Anglican Church, and Fonthill United Church in creating the successful Life Lease retirement community.

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Halverson agrees that seniors, “Want to age in place, and be there for the long haul...there is a significant need for suitable retirement living accommodation. Seniors stay longer than they should [in their traditional, current homes] because of cost.”

Although Halverson recognizes the importance of cost, he believes there is much more to successful seniors housing. The key is that the housing be “adaptable and flexible for changing needs that can graduate into assisted living.” Such an approach eliminates many of the problems that arise with traditional development models aimed at seniors.

Halverson asserts that only 4% to 8% of us will ever enter a nursing home (the mean age for moving into an extended care unit is now 85), clearly illustrating the importance of getting housing targeted at 55-80 year olds correct. He sees mistakes being made now, and suggests that all parties—municipal-

ities and governments, developers, and seniors themselves—share the blame.

“The business models of developers prefer urban sprawl, more profitable single family homes, and using up land. It’s easier than dealing with a [non-profit corporate] board of directors, as is continuing to build just one kind of housing,” says Halverson. “In Pelham, such homes will cost around four hundred thousand dollars, five hundred thousand dollars, or more—there is no way around it,” prices that both he and Peter Papp believe are beyond “affordable.”

In the next breath Halverson adds that we’ve done it to ourselves. “We look at housing as an investment rather than shelter. Our homes were built for Peter Pan — on the assumption we’d never grow old — but we did. We need to reduce our expectations. In 1950 the average size of a home for a family of four was nine hundred

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and fifty square feet.” His point seems self-evident, but points to a major issue facing developers and planners.

Construction of more modest homes is a regular argument advanced in the discussion of affordability. Both Papp and Halverson are positive that developers can reduce non-essential features and materials—say goodbye to those granite countertops and elaborate bathroom fixtures and tiles—and still produce excellent-quality housing units that are more affordable. The question is, will the market will accept more modest units? In reality, surplus funds generated when seniors sell their larger homes in strong markets like Toronto are frequently applied to upgrading their newer, smaller homes in Pelham.

In expressing his opinion that the senior housing model needs to be changed, Halverson says that planners and municipalities must not treat senior housing as an afterthought. “Warehousing seniors in a multi-story apartment or home in the corner of a traditional development doesn’t work. Neighbourhoods first. Mixing sizes and prices within developments provide integrated options for those with lower equity.”

Pelham Councillor Catherine King agrees that allowing seniors to enjoy their independence is critical when they downsize. Her position as Property Manager for Pelham Non-Profit Housing Corporation’s Seniors Apartment in Fonthill provides her with broad experience of “How it looks on the ground” for those seniors choosing apartment living.

“Affordability, comfort, and the opportunity to engage in the community, walk to the store or library, are essential. We used to look after our own,” King says, referring to a bygone time when the family unit was central to keeping seniors cared for and in touch. “Now it falls on government to assure continuity of care.”

King fears that Pelham is becoming unaffordable for Niagrans.

“The average person can’t pay Pelham’s fifteen hundred to twenty-five hundred-dollars-amonth rents,” a sentiment she shares with Councillor Papp. The building that King manages has an average monthly rent of $900 for a one-bedroom unit, and residents range in age from 60 to 96. Apartments are leased at market-value rents, with a portion of units being geared-to-income, in which residents are supported in meeting rent costs by Niagara Region Housing. Waiting times are between three and five years.

King is candid on the sustainability of such facilities. The current apartment building is well cared for and appealing, and is mortgage-free, yet just manages to pay its way.

“The building is thirty-six

years old, and the challenge is accumulating the capital for maintenance,” says King, foreshadowing the additional major costs she anticipates will come with age.

“Creation of affordable seniors apartment units in the future will face two major hurdles,” she says, “Land costs and financing, with or without government aid. “ She asks where suitable land is available in Pelham, close to the amenities seniors need.

King then emphasizes the advantage that apartments offer in increasing Pelham’s tax base. Her 64-unit building pays approximately 10 times the municipal taxes the land would generate if occupied only by single-family homes.

When seniors reach the age that long-term, assisted-care housing is needed (85 in Ontario on average), JustShelters Dick Halverson again suggests that the model needs shaking up, and that huge nursing homes may be counterproductive. He cites the example of St John’s Greenhouse Project in Rochester, New York, where privately funded ranch-style units capable of housing 10 assisted-living seniors have been inserted directly into existing neighbourhoods.

Halverson says that most seniors aren’t sick, “...just old.

Take out the medical model, with the doctors in charge, and put the personal support workers in charge.”

The success that St John’s has had in improving quality-of-life via community interaction indicates that the concept works, and Halverson believes such a project could easily be integrated into Pelham communities.

Adding to all these senior housing options, very recent changes in provincial housing legislation are making approval of compliant “secondary suites” mandatory. A memo released last Wednesday by the Communications Branch of the Ministry of Housing states, “Making secondary suites such as above-garage apartments or basement units in new homes less costly to build, by exempting them from development charges ... acts to help increase the supply of affordable housing.” Basic arguments in favour of this intensification effort are clear: the second unit can be a source of income for seniors needing financial support to stay in their homes, or the second unit can become senior housing, often offering the advantage of having family care close at hand.

Such intensification also conserves land and reduces the costs of servicing, both of which should help reduce general housing costs in the future. Everyone interviewed for this article supports the concept of intensification and acknowledges the benefits, but the opinion of Pelham residents is unknown at this early stage.

Applying the new legislation may become controversial politically as housing units within Pelham are converted.

What are the next steps for Council and residents to address the needs of affordable senior housing in Pelham?

Getting at it now, sooner rather than later, establishing time-frames to achieve specific, concrete goals that are within the control of local government, is essential.

See SENIORS Page 15

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SENIORS continued from Page 14 Everyone involved understands that the clichéd “Silver Tsunami” is lapping at the shores of housing, but there is no consensus on how to prioritize the steps necessary to deal with it. Our Council and Town staff, with the encouragement of Pelham residents, need to find the energy and courage to tackle this issue.

King refers to attending a 2015 conference as an example of the need for urgency from provincial and federal housing ministries as well.

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

She attended an Ontario Non-profit Housing Conference to Provide Input into the Committee to Raise Awareness of...

“It was just talk, reports, around in circles,” she recalls.

Papp wonders if there should be a Pelham/Fonthill Development Corporation established, perhaps as a non-profit or as a committee of Council, that would provide a focus for the issue of affordable senior housing.

This body could represent the Town’s position in dealing with developers and the province more expediently.

Page 15

Such an proposal at least gets the discussion going.

Pelham resident Deb Rollo, past Executive Director of Community Support Services of Regional Niagara, active member of PSAC and Niagara’s Age-Friendly Community Initiative, has seen the need for affordable senior’s housing up close. She says of Council, “A lot of good things have happened in Pelham, the community centre, the medical centre....

The more we raise the issue of affordable seniors housing, the more they will take it to heart.”

SIDEBAR: No time to lose

BY JOHN SWART

VOICE Correspondent

In researching this article it quickly hit home, so to speak, how complex this issue is. There is no single solution, but it is clear that without personal planning and a strategy for housing in one’s “senior years,” there is a risk retirees will lose the enjoyment and freedom they expect to experience.

It was heartening to see that the provincial and federal governments recognize the issue, and are beginning to put legislation in place to improve support and planning at the local level. Likewise, our municipal staff and Councillors have recognized the need to facilitate affordable housing for seniors. The critical components are urgency, and the strength of Pelham council to effect needed change

FAITH continued from Page 4 bered among those rounded up in boxcars and murdered in Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Yes, they go door to door and pester you to join their flock, but they’ll shake the dust off their shoes and politely go away when you ask them to. The Bible dictates their behaviour, not yours.

Your behaviour is entirely between you, your conscience and God. They’ll not judge lest they be judged.

And they’ll neither seek public office nor challenge legal permissions they eschew, because the Bible commands them not to get involved.

That’s a good thing on its face. Faith is a tremendous variable. Kingdom Halls and churches and mosques and temples espouse wildly divergent realities, hence the necessity to separate faith from the affairs of state.

It is the sole prerogative of the state to set the rules, to prosecute and to punish.

Faith-based injunctions insinuating themselves into laws can corrupt to the extent they punish individuals who are hurting nobody — themselves and their mortal souls, arguably, but that’s free will and none of our business.

In 1969, the year homosexuality was decriminalized in Canada, a 45-yearold librarian at Welland High School was caught up in a police dragnet over the river. His name and address on Willson Road, where he lived with his widowed mother, were published in a Buffalo newspaper.

A copy circulated in the student parking lot on Denistoun Street. It was open season. Malignant sneers, titters and whispers shadowed him in the halls. Groups of boys hurled lewd wisecracks and hateful slurs at his back. He was “a queer and a pervert and a

in the nature of future developments. Pelham is a fiscally stable community that has become a prime, highly desirable location for residential and commercial development. We can demand high standards from potential developers, not in housing prices, but in liveability, innovation, and vibrancy of design, without fear that Pelham will be bypassed.

As residents, we need to make our views known so Town Councillors and staff can react quickly to align Pelham’s Master Plan with the wishes of the majority of Pelham residents. We need to be diligent as the Town of Pelham works toward a sales and planning strategy for the surplus land it now owns to ensure that affordable seniors’ housing is part of the discussion. Specifics and communication at each step are needed if Pelham is to provide appropriate seniors’ housing in the future.

faggot,” and fair game.

We bore witness to his unraveling.

He slinked about the school, eyes reddened and downcast while the torment ensued unabated, unchallenged and unpunished.

Within a few weeks of his arrest and release on his own recognizance he appeared as an apparition; ashen, unshaven, disheveled and humiliated.

Before semester’s end he and his mother quietly left town and were not heard from again.

It wasn’t right, and deep down we all knew it. It was the beginning of the end of my parochial school homophobia, though the af-

fliction took many more years to resolve entirely.

He was Mr. Franco. I learned recently that he’d moved to Toronto and went on to become a beloved champion of LGBT causes until his death, at age 91, in 2014.

It’s dispiriting to witness the re-emergence of powerful elements in western society contriving to roll back the clock, to reconstitute petrified prejudices, rationalizing discrimination and hate in the guise of spirituality and love.

And like wretched schoolboys and their willfully blind teachers we stand by and let it happen. Over and over again.

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Page 16

The Voice of Pelham, December 14, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham

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